Eric Nam Opens Up About Panic Disorder and Health Struggles Behind His Move Back to America
K-pop singer and actor Eric Nam has shared new details about the serious mental and physical health struggles that pushed him to step away from life in South Korea and return to the United States. The artist revealed that years of pressure in the entertainment industry deeply affected his well-being, leading to panic disorder, physical complications, and emotional exhaustion.
Nam, who was born and raised in Atlanta, first gained attention online through YouTube cover songs before officially debuting with his single “Heaven’s Door” in 2013. Over the years, he became one of the most recognized Korean American figures in the K-pop industry, releasing several albums and building a large international fanbase through songs including “I Don’t Miss You” and “Lost On Me.”
During a recent street interview with YouTube creator Jay Yeon on the Jaykeeout channel, the 37-year-old singer spoke openly about how his life in South Korea gradually became overwhelming. According to Nam, the pressure of constantly appearing cheerful in public became emotionally draining and eventually affected both his mental and physical health.
Nam explained that although he appeared positive and energetic on television and in public appearances, he was privately struggling for a long time. He said even simple daily activities began to feel difficult because of growing anxiety and fear. The singer described that period of his life as one of the hardest experiences he has faced.
As his condition worsened, Nam said he developed panic disorder and experienced several alarming physical symptoms. He revealed that he survived on porridge for months because of his declining health and also suffered paralysis-related symptoms affecting his arms, fingers, legs, and back. At one point, he said the right side of his face suddenly lost sensation, leaving him frightened about his overall condition.
The singer ultimately decided to move back to the United States following the COVID-19 pandemic. Since returning, he has continued working in entertainment while also exploring projects outside traditional K-pop promotions. Nam recently appeared on the reality competition series The Traitors, whose finale aired earlier this year. He is also preparing future film-related projects while continuing his music career.
Outside of music, Nam has increasingly focused on conversations around emotional wellness and mental health awareness. In 2019, he co-founded DIVE Studios alongside his brothers Eddie Nam and Brian Nam. Through the company, the family later launched Mindset, a platform designed to encourage open discussions about mental health experiences among artists and fans.
Even after returning to the United States, Nam admitted that life still comes with emotional challenges. He explained that much of his work now involves traveling alone without a large support team. According to the singer, he often handles many responsibilities himself, including travel arrangements and personal preparation during work schedules.
Nam also shared that his upcoming music project explores themes connected to loneliness and isolation. He said those emotions reflect parts of his real-life experiences while balancing a demanding career with personal struggles behind the scenes.
In recent years, conversations surrounding mental health within the entertainment industry have become more visible, especially among artists speaking publicly about burnout, anxiety, and emotional pressure. Nam has become one of the more vocal public figures discussing those issues openly, encouraging more honest conversations around wellness and emotional balance.
The singer previously received a 2023 TIME100 Impact Award recognizing his advocacy and influence. He continues to emphasize that mental health challenges can affect anyone, regardless of fame or success, and believes open dialogue remains important for both artists and audiences.
Sources
TIME
The Korea Times
The Chosun Daily
Jaykeeout YouTube Channel
